Syracuse man gets maximum penalty for murder

Syracuse, NY - A Syracuse man convicted of murdering the mother of his three children was sentenced this morning to the maximum penalty of 25 years to life in state prison.

But County Judge Joseph Fahey indicated he believed James Guilford should never be released from prison for killing Sharon Nugent in February 2007. The judge said he would recommend that parole officials never release Guilford until Nugent is given a proper burial, something that cannot happen as authorities believe her remains were thrown in a dumpster and incinerated.

Nugent's mother, Patricia Alexander, tearfully told the judge how Guilford had stolen a mother from three young children, a best friend and older sister from siblings and a daughter from her, leaving a huge void in the lives of those who loved Nugent.

Read The Post-Standard Wednesday for a complete story on Tuesday's sentencing.